Set in the turbulent south in the 1950s, Memphis is the story of Huey Calhoun, a white radio DJ whose love of good music transcends race lines and airwaves. Thanks in part to his passionate persistence, "race" music reaches the center of the radio dial, quickly exploding throughout mainstream America. But when Huey falls for a beautiful black singer he has set on the path to stardom, whether the world is really ready for this music, and their love, is put to the test.
Memphis was chosen as one of the Best Shows of 2009 by the editors of Broadway.com! Read More
Memphis is set in the places where rock and roll was born in the 1950s: the seedy nightclubs, radio stations and recording studios of the musically-rich Tennessee city. With an original score, it tells the fictional story of DJ Huey Calhoun, a good ole’ local boy with a passion for R&B music and Felicia Farrell, an up-and-coming black singer that he meets one fateful night on Beale Street. Despite the objections of their loved ones (Huey’s close-minded mama and Felicia’s cautious brother, a club owner), they embark on a dangerous affair. As their careers rise, the relationship is challenged by personal ambition and the pressures of an outside world unable to accept their love.
"The biggest hit on Broadway this year or any other year! See it even if you have to bribe somebody to get tickets."
WOR Radio
David Richardson
"I guarantee you a rambunctious good time!"
Bloomberg
John Simon
"The sensuous, soulful sound of rhythm 'n' blues hits the audience right from the start of [this] exhilarating new musical now shaking Broadway's Shubert Theatre. Take a deep breath as the curtain rises because the exuberance doesn't stop."
Associated Press
Michael Kuchwara
"Don't hesitate before booking a ticket to 'Memphis'... Joyfully entertaining in musical and theatrical terms. The show could well turn out to be a surprise hit."
Hollywood Reporter
Frank Scheck